Lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure performed for individuals who suffer from severe back pain caused by a herniated disc in the lumbar region. This condition often leads to debilitating symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.
Considered as a major surgery, lumbar discectomy aims to alleviate the pressure on the affected nerve by removing the damaged disc. It is typically performed under general anesthesia by a skilled neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon.
The procedure begins with a small incision made in the lower back, allowing the surgeon to access the affected disc. Through this incision, the muscles and tissues are gently moved aside to reach the problem area. With the assistance of surgical tools and a microscope, the surgeon carefully removes the herniated portion of the disc that is pressing against the nerves or spinal cord.
Following the removal of the disc material, the incision is closed using sutures or staples, and a dressing is placed over it. The patient is then taken to the recovery room, where they are monitored closely until they wake up from anesthesia.
While lumbar discectomy is considered a major surgery, advancements in medical technology have allowed for less invasive techniques, such as microdiscectomy. With this minimally invasive approach, smaller incisions are made, resulting in quicker recovery times and reduced post-operative pain.
However, every surgical procedure carries potential risks and complications. Patients undergoing lumbar discectomy may experience infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or a recurrence of symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial for patients to discuss the procedure’s benefits and risks with their surgeon to make an informed decision.
In conclusion, lumbar discectomy is indeed considered a major surgery aimed at relieving severe back pain caused by a herniated disc. Through careful removal of the damaged disc, patients may expect a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in their overall quality of life.
What is the success rate of a micro discectomy?
The success rate for microdiscectomy surgery is generally high. Large-scale studies have shown good to excellent results for over 80% of people who had a microdiscectomy surgery.
What is the recovery time for a microscopic discectomy?
It may take up to 8 weeks to get back to doing your usual activities.
How serious is a lumbar discectomy?
Diskectomy is considered safe. But as with any surgery, diskectomy carries a risk of complications. Potential complications include: Bleeding.Jul 1, 2022
What is microscopic lumbar discectomy?
Microdiscectomy is a type of minimally invasive discectomy commonly used to treat a herniated disc. When a herniated disc compresses a spinal nerve, symptoms can include pain (which may extend down one or both arms and legs, as is the case in sciatica), muscle weakness and difficulty with repetitive motions.
How much does a spinal discectomy cost?
The cost for your herniated disc surgery will vary based on several factors. On average, surgery related to a herniated disc ranges from $15,000 to $35,000 or more. This includes hospital and surgeon fees and related expenses.Jan 7, 2022
Does insurance cover a discectomy?
If you have a herniated disc that isn’t responding to conservative treatment, a back surgery procedure called a discectomy may be the best option. It’s typical for health insurance coverage to absorb the bulk of the costs associated with a discectomy.
How much does it cost to have a discectomy?
The cost for your herniated disc surgery will vary based on several factors. On average, surgery related to a herniated disc ranges from $15,000 to $35,000 or more. This includes hospital and surgeon fees and related expenses.Jan 7, 2022
Is a lumbar discectomy worth it?
What are the benefits? Surgery may relieve your pain faster than non-surgical treatments. But over the long term, surgery and non-surgical treatments work about the same to reduce pain and other symptoms. With surgery, most people can go back to work or their other activities sooner.
